UPDATE 10/3/2013: So of the 27 pounds I lost in 2012, I've gained back 6 pounds. Well, at one point earlier this year it was over 7 pounds. Most of that came from fear - fear of facing reality. I was hiding and trying to put a layer of fat between me and my problems. Good news is that I've faced up to several issues that had been dogging me and I'm back on track! I'm looking forward to finishing strong in 2013. My goal is to get back to where I was at the beginning of 2013 and move ...

UPDATE 10/3/2013: So of the 27 pounds I lost in 2012, I've gained back 6 pounds. Well, at one point earlier this year it was over 7 pounds. Most of that came from fear - fear of facing reality. I was hiding and trying to put a layer of fat between me and my problems. Good news is that I've faced up to several issues that had been dogging me and I'm back on track! I'm looking forward to finishing strong in 2013. My goal is to get back to where I was at the beginning of 2013 and move forward from there. I have 5 1/2 pounds yet to lose to accomplish that goal. I'm hopeful that with my newfound strength I'll be able to accomplish that.

Only 4 1/2 months till I turn 40. I guess I won't make my goal weight by then (that was what I was hoping to accomplish) but at least I'm still in the game!

UPDATE 1/1/2013: It's 2013 and I've lost 27 pounds in 2012. I'm so proud of that accomplishment. I'm hoping in 2013 that I can lose this last 23 pounds. So far, 2013 has been difficult. However, I'm really trying to not lose focus completely, I cannot give up. I WILL NOT GIVE UP. I'm too important and totally worthy of this journey! Not to mention that I've worked too hard to watch it all slip away. I won't allow that to happen.

I'm 38 years young and a mother of 2 (a 14 year old and a 6 year old). I work full-time and over the last three years I've managed to put on LOTS of weight. I actually weighed the same amount I did when I gave birth to my 2nd son. I've lost my joy in life and it's affecting my family. I don't want to be this way anymore so I'm making a committment in 2012 to find things to be involved in and be a better mom, wife and woman.

Nicole, you said you are Leslie'd out. Have you tried Jessica Smith. She has a lot of 30 minute videos on YouTube or check her out at JessicaSmithTV.com. She bases many of her workouts on walking, but does offer different routines. I hope you have a good weekend. Stay warm. Melissa

Thank you for the Goodie Nicole. I hope you have a Happy and healthy new year. Let's make 2015 Strong. When ever you need support, let me know and I'll be there. Thanks for being my Spark Friend. Melissa